Must-Taste Restaurants to Try in Ottawa, Ontario

When you’re planning a trip, you want to have the details in place before you arrange your flights. People spend a great deal of time researching the quality of the restaurants near their hotels before they book their rooms. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, may have had a reputation for being a bit more conservative when it comes to food, music, and nightlife activities, but this image is outdated.

The city has become a popular location for upscale restaurants and small eateries. Restaurants that have created a small menu of amazing dishes that showcase Canadian flair and local ingredients will certainly attract a crowd. If you’re looking for a great restaurant, consider some of the following must-try places.

Beckta Dining and Wine Bar

When you think about fine dining in Ottawa, Beckta Dining and Wine Bar is a name that keeps appearing as a stunning upscale restaurant and wine bar. The menu is designed to be modern and seasonal with the options of a prix fixe menu for dinner that includes a three- or five-course meal. Lunch is served a la carte to accommodate work schedules.

The second floor of the historic Grant House is set aside for private dining with either a prix fixe or customized menu. Beckta offers in-house wine pairings, but guests also have the option of bringing their own wine (a corkage fee applies). The restaurant offers attractive hours, but customer reviews suggest that the best nights to dine here are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Walk-ins and reservations are both available, but reservations are recommended, especially for the larger private dining areas since they require a minimum number of guests for seating.

Mad Radish

For a vegan and vegetarian twist, check out the Mad Radish. This casual but trendy restaurant provides an option for those who are looking for a quick, healthy meal with tasty local ingredients. Reservations are not needed. The owners of this restaurant strive to be as eco-friendly as possible, even offering completely compostable dishes and cutlery. Make sure you take a credit or debit card as cash is not accepted.

Atelier Restaurant

Atelier is an amazing restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Atelier features a 12-course tasting menu of micro-cuisine inspired by the concept of molecular gastronomy. Although the menu is a tasting menu, the chefs are accommodating with substitutions. The restaurant accepts reservations, and although the prices are slightly high, you’ll have a dining experience you won’t soon forget.

MeNa

Ottawa has a decidedly French flair, so it shouldn’t surprise you that a French restaurant would be among the most recommended establishments. At MeNa, you’ll enjoy a meal inspired by the French roots that the city is built on. MeNa offers several tasting menus of beautiful, seasonally based cuisine that can also feature a wine pairing along with the dishes. The restaurant has a warm and intimate ambience and phenomenal service. While you can make reservations, they are not necessary to dine here.